If I recall layton didn't have a seat in the House of Commons when he was elected leader. I suppose when I get to know a bit more about Topp Ill be in a better position to comment. But the party has made great strides of late and I'm just not sure Leader of the Official Opposition should be an entry level position.
It probably shouldn't, but it's been done before. Layton didn't have a seat, but he held elected office and did have a public profile, even outside of hogtown.